Breaking Down Stigma: A Counselor's Guide to Understanding and Action
We want to help people see that it's really much more common, unfortunately, than you know. You know the people that we see, and I firmly believe that not everybody who engages in school shootings, or you know mass murders or you know horrific crimes, I don't believe every single one of them- is mentally ill in terms of being depressed or schizophrenic or something. But what we're talking about is not people with mental illness.
Ever wondered why it takes so long for people to seek help for mental health issues? Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes tackles this question head-on in this episode of the 'Counselor Toolbox Podcast'. She sheds light on the alarming delay—often eight to ten years—between the onset of symptoms and intervention, and explores the devastating impact this can have on individuals and their families. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Dr.
Snipes dives into the nuances of stigma and discrimination, offering a comprehensive look at how these issues affect those with mental health challenges. She covers the protections provided by the ADA and emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between mental illness and criminal behavior, dispelling harmful myths along the way. The episode also addresses how societal factors like poverty and violence intersect with mental health, making it clear that these issues are deeply intertwined. Dr.
Snipes doesn't just stop at identifying problems; she offers actionable strategies for fighting discrimination and advocating for clients. Whether you're a counselor, a coach, or someone personally affected by mental health issues, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Dr. Snipes wraps up with a hopeful message: by educating society and advocating for those with mental health challenges, we can make significant strides in reducing stigma and discrimination.